The Future of the Craft
Society today is not organised as our grandparents knew it, nor even as our parents knew it, and those of us
who are elderly know very well that it is not organised even as we knew it when young.
Every parent tries to give his child some sense of security, even where he feels little security himself. In
times of firm and detailed religious belief and discipline this, no doubt, was easy enough to do if the child
was amenable and kept to the rules without developing too much of a sense of guilt over his minor
peccadilloes: if he kicked over the traces and showed some high spirits then he knew he had to take the
consequences unless he amended his ways. Today neither dogma nor discipline attempt to match those of the
mediaeval church and there is more room in society for personal choice without ostracism or boycotting of
the person who fails to conform.
With all its virtues this change means that the easily understood code, the rule of thumb, has been thrown
overboard. If the world is unsettled with nations at odds with one another and every man's hand turned
against his neighbour's, it is well that the adult should know and understand the situation: it is likely to be
more unsettling for the child. Youngsters today are not brought up in the tradition of Britannia Rules the
Waves, nor yet of God's in His Heaven, All's Right with the World. When international perfidy and personal
cruelty can reach the depths they do no parent is kind who teaches his child that human nature is essentially
good: we have to face the fact that we are compounded of good and bad, and so are our neighbours.
The teaching of the Craft is based, through its ritual, very largely on the system of conventional morality
accepted by society at a particular period of history. The ritual owes a great deal to the Christianity of the
time, and to the moral beliefs that usually accompanied acceptance of Christianity as it was then taught and
understood.
Most people who accept religious truth believe that it is immutable, but most people have to accept, sooner
or later, the fact that institutional interpretation of religious truth may be very fallible indeed.
Those who established modern Freemasonry were very wise, because they allowed for differences in
interpretation, and insisted as a pre-requisite for membership, only on the essential core on which all good
men agree—the central belief.
Today we are reaping the advantages of this attitude, though scepticism in society has gone even further than
might have been expected. No more is required of the Freemason with the exception of this one essential
belief than is expected of any member of a service club, or any decent member of the community.
And yet, the time is out of joint. We need not all echo, like the absolute hereditary monarch (or his heir), "O
cursed spite, That ever I was born to set it right", but we all bear some responsibility, and those of us who are
older know that the newer generation inclines to blame us for leaving it not a brave new world but what we
have, with wars, invasions, tortures, doubletalk, doublethink, treachery and shameful oppression, all of them
employed to rob man of his right of self-determination; the exercise of which has so effectively supplanted
the acceptance of strict dogma.
In the result, the religious dogma which has been purged of much that went beyond essentials, has been
replaced by a political dogma, a yolk enforced not by the sanction of a material hell or ostracism from the
general community, but by tanks and machine guns, mescalin injections and brain-washing drugs.
The younger generation in its rebellion against restraint protests against this, that and the other: we are in
danger of breeding a race of people who prefer to protest rather than a race of people who prefer to build:
instead of setting up images we breed iconoclasts, idol-smashers. When the smashers have demolished all the
idols, what shall we have left?
Students of the philosophy underlying government have some of the answers, and these are to be found quite
largely in the simple but often-forgotten distinction between liberty and licence. Liberty consists in freedom
of action, with only such restraints upon it as men by common consent or majority vote accept for the
individual in one area for the better exercise of freedom in all areas by all members of the community.
Licence consists of following one's own bent regardless of the rights of others: today, at its mildest, it
consists of "protesting" in such a way as to interfere with other people's right to be unmolested: even, if they
think fit, to take no interest in one's dearly espoused pet cause.
This is not to say that no citizen has the right by every legal and constitutional means to present his point of
view: it does mean that he must keep to those means.
One of the frightening things which is happening in the world is the way in which extremists lash out
indiscriminately against rulers, candidates for office and ambassadors, as though the assassin's bullet directed
against an individual can remove an evil for which he is held responsible. That civilised man should think
that force of this kind is a substitute for reason is more than saddening.
When a great nation or consortium of nations adopts similar measures one begins to wonder whether there is
any hope for mankind.
Nevertheless the whole history of mankind is like a graph showing peaks and depths: we slide into a morass
so that we may use the bottom of it to support the ladder on which we will climb out of it.
Though times may change nothing can change the teaching of the Craft—Faith, Hope and Charity: the
greatest of these is our distinguishing characteristic, Charity.
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TWO LITTLE WORDS
As we go about our daily tasks, we frequently take too much for granted. In our present state of glorified
service, we are somewhat apt to expect and accept much, without even expressing an appreciative word to
the source from whence it came.
These two little words, which if spoken at the proper time and place, can do much to alleviate a rough spot in
life are: "Thank you." They are the outward sign of a gracious being, and bespeak an attitude which would
not withhold praise when it is deserved. Many of us are negligently stingy in the use of these clever, smooth
little words, yet one's best friends are not adverse to hearing them.
"Thank you" are oftimes encouraging words, and the smallest favour is worthy of that appreciation. No
praise is ever wholly undeserved. A jolly, good fellow is a dismal failure and hypocrite, unless he can learn
to say: "Thank you"—two words which are great miracle workers in the humans' scheme of life.
—The Masonic World.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Journals bearing the following addresses have been returned to this office marked, "Gone, No Address".
Should any Lodge Secretary or Brother know the present address of any of these Brethren, we would be
pleased to receive their advice.
J. M. Clark, 76 Godden Cres., Auckland, E.1.
Alan Marryatt, 225 Main Rd., Trentham.
J. E. Aitken, 7 Ranfurly Tee., Wellington.
C. T. Robertson, 94 Purnell St., Wanganui.
L. J. Amos, 15 Georges Drive, Napier. W. Barclay, Ohaeawai.
D. L. Hendra, 23 Elizabeth St., Fending.
D. R. McKenzie, 87 James St., Whakatane.
K. A. Richards, Antares Flats, 6 East St., Petone.
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WANTED
The following volumes of A.Q.C. to complete my set: Vols. I, 3, 7, 50, 52, 53, and 54. Would take all or any.
J. P. GLENIE, P.O. Box 1569, Auckland.
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Installing Masters Guide" in stock at
Regalia House
The Banners of the Twelve
Tribes of Israel
The ceremonial background of most of the degrees in Freemasonry is taken from the history of the Hebrews,
because this nation was the only one that nationally worshipped the Great Architect of the Universe. Other
nations worshipped the sun or lesser deities.
Craft Masonry takes its symbols from King Solomon's Temple. Capitular Masonry from Hebrew history,
which began with Abraham, a Syrian who lived about the year 2000. As a result of a vision and hearing a
voice he left his country determined to worship God the creator of heaven and earth and built an altar for this
purpose.
During a famine after his death, his descendants who lived in Caanan migrated to Egypt. They numbered 70.
To the King of Egypt they described themselves as shepherds. They were made welcome, given the land of
Goshen to dwell in, and appointed rulers of the cattle.
Jacob just before his death assembled his 12 sons together to give most of them his blessing. He
prophetically told of their future and that one day they would return to their native land.
Chapter 49 of Genesis describes the character of each son whose names eventually became known as the 12
tribes of Israel. The Banners in the Royal Arch Chapter bear these names and their emblems. In course of
time the people multiplied so greatly that Pharoah became alarmed, fearing that in time of war they might
join their enemies, so he placed Egyptian rulers over them and made them bondsmen. Bondsmen differed
from slaves in this respect that slaves were people who had been captured and could be bought and sold, but
bondsmen were state property and could not be sold. Eventually they were given permission to leave Egypt,
and under the skilful leadership of Moses they began their return to their native land which was Palestine, a
journey which lasted 40 years.
Their release was a miracle and accepted by Moses who taught them that it was the fulfilment of a promise
made by God to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob many years before. Organisation followed, a system of worship
established (idols were prohibited), the 10 Commandments given, a tent tabernacle erected and the people
divided into 12 tribes. (See Numbers, chapter 2.) They were to travel and camp four-square under the
leadership of four ruling tribes. The tabernacle was to remain in the centre and the tribe of Levi made
responsible for its removal and re-erecting as they travelled from place to place (they were not to wander like
the proverbial Brown's cows) under such formations they camped and marched.
The Eastern division. Judah, Issacher and Zebulun were led by the tribe of Judah whose standard was a Lion
to represent strength and power.
The Western division. Ephraim, Manassah and Benjamin under the leadership of Ephraim whose standard
was an ox denoting patience and assiduity.
The Southern division Reuben, Simeon and Gad, whose standard a man to personify intelligence and
understanding.
The Northern division. Dan, Ashur and Naphtali, whose standard an eagle to display promptness and celerity
in doing the will and pleasure of the great I am. Beside the standard of the four divisions, each tribe had its
own banner meant to symbolise their character.
Judah a lion, Couchand, surmounted by a crown and sceptre. The colour crimson or scarlet. It represented
strength and power. It was the chief tribe.
Issacher was sky blue, charged with a strong ass, crouching beneath its burden—a symbol of labour. They
preferred labour to war.
Zebulun, their colour purple and bore the distinguishing characteristic—a ship. Hence Jacob's prophecy,
"The haven of the sea, and the haven of ships his border". When they eventually reached Caanan they were
allotted a portion near the sea.
Reuben was the eldest of Jacob's sons but was a disappointment to his father who referred to him as unstable
as water. The banner was a man. This was the smallest tribe.
Simeon bore a yellow banner emblazoned with a sword. Their character—men of war.
Gad, the banner white, emblazoned with a troop of horsemen. Their character—defenders.
Ephraim and Manassah were Joseph's sons. Ephraim's banner was green and the figure an ox denoting
patience, industry and strength thus fulfilling the prophecy "Ephraim is the strength of mine head".
Manassah had a flesh coloured banner displaying a vine, its tendrils overhanging a wall. In character—
prosperous. His defence is a bow.
Benjamin, a green banner emblazoned with a wolf. In character, war-like and cruel.
Dan—the largest tribe. Their banner bright green and charged with an eagle. In character, wisdom and
sublimity. Dan signifies judging and Jacob prophesied, "Dan would be a serpent in the way", thus the
emblem of a rider whose horse's hoof is held by a serpent. Their method of defence was more by policy than
force.
Ashur—its colour purple and bore a flourishing tree or cup. In character, fruitful, providing the necessities of
life.
Naphtali, its colour blue, showing a hind let loose, symbolising productivity of the soil. Described by Moses
as, "Satisfied with favour and full of the blessings of the Lord".
After 40 years a new generation sprang up and on entering the land of Caanan, which was later called
Palestine, no man was over the age of 60 years except two leaders named Joshua and Calab. There followed
some years of war after which the land was divided among them. The surrounding nations were hostile and
although the division was intended to be by lot, it was divided more by the character of the tribes. The war-
like tribes occupied the borders and the others the more fertile areas and the sea coast. The Philistines in the
south, the Amorites in the east, and the Assyrians in the north.
Two tribes did not receive an inheritance. They were Simeon and Levi. They are represented by instruments
of war, the former by a sword and the latter a dagger, symbolising cruelty and deceit. These two sons of
Jacob, under the assurance of kindness and good faith, committed a barbarous murder and received their
father's curse. It was a case of a bomb in a bouquet. Simeon dwelt in the midst of Judah and lived in the
desert of Gideon and Levi dispersed among the other tribes. Hence the prophecy of Jacob. "Cursed be their
anger for it was fierce and their wrath for it was cruel. I will divide them in Jacob and scatter them in Israel."
In our day and generation the practice of banners to represent character is still used. We are familiar with the
display of flags at international events. We know what nation the lion represents. Some nations changed their
emblems as the eagle for the swastika and the bear for the hammer and sickle the better to represent their
character.
We are familiar with the cross representing churches and the red cross, hospitals. The triangle for Y.M.C.A.
and of course the square and compass for our own institution. We may ask the question what has this to do
with Masonry today? History repeats itself and human nature is unchanged. The Hebrew nation whose
history shows the part T.G.A.O.T.U. played in shaping their destiny. Joseph explained to his brethren that it
was God that overruled his being sold as a slave and taken to Egypt. He comforted them saying, "Ye thought
evil, but God meant it unto good". Gen. 50:20. Moses after 40 years said, "Remember the Lord led thee" and
almost his last words, "The Lord led me". Joseph prophesied that one day God would bring about their return
to Caanan. Success or failure would depend on obedience or disobedience to God's commands. Jacob told his
sons of their vices and their virtues and prophesied the same characteristics in their future.
Our Masonic lectures illustrate this same truth that the guiding point of the compass is God Himself.
Abraham looked for a city whose builder and maker is God. Hebrews 11, 10.
Man looketh on the outward appearance but God looketh at the heart. 1 Samuel 16, 7.
—S. R. HEYWARD, P.M., Past Z., Past T.I.M.
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BUILD FOR ETERNITY
Therefore, when we build. let us think that we build for eternity. Let it not be for present delight nor for
present use alone, but let it be of such work as our descendants will thank us for, and let us think as we lay
stone upon stone, that a time will come when the stones will be held sacred because our hands have touched
them and men will say as they look upon the labour that wrought them, "See this our fathers did for us."
—John Ruskin
AUCKLAND
In Auckland, quite recently, a new Sovereign Chapter of Princes Rose Croix known as the John J. Laws
Sovereign Chapter, No. 157, under the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite was Consecrated and Erected at
the Rooms of the Rite, Rosebank Road, Avondale, by V. Ill. Bro. C. A. Rowe, 33°, Sovereign Grand
Inspector-General, New Zealand North. The Sovereign Chapter was named in memory of the late V. Ill. Bro.
John James Laws, 33°, the previous S.G.I.G. of New Zealand North.
Our late Brother was a Mason of the highest principles, having served the Craft faithfully and well for over
40 years. He had attained the Office of District Grand Master, Grand Supt. for New Zealand of the Scottish
Craft and Royal Arch as well as S.G.I.G. His love of the Craft was well known and his opinions highly
respected by all the Constitutions in the Auckland Province, more particularly by those who served with and
under him. His passing was a great loss to Scottish Freemasonry and in dedicating this Sovereign Chapter to
his memory, the founders had the full support and blessing of the Supreme Council for Scotland.
The Ceremony was perfomed by V. Ill. Bro. C. A. Rowe, 33°, S.G.I.G., New Zealand North, in a very
impressive manner, following which he Installed Ill. Bro. R. L. Wain-house, 32°, as the first M.W.S., Ill.
Bro. I. E. Hammond as Dep. M.W.S., Ill. Bro. C. A. Watson as H.P., Ex. and Perf. Comp. F. A. Osborne as
S.W. and Ex. and Perf. Comp. R. R. T. Bailey as J.W.
There was an attendance of over 100 Rose Croix Masons and it was added pleasure to the S.G.I.G. to
welcome V. Ill. Bro. A. F. Bow, 33°, Inspector-General, Northern District, of the A. and A. Rite to the
Meeting. This spirit of friendship between the two Rites is a source of great joy to all members in the
Auckland District, and support such as this augers well for the future of this new Sovereign Chapter.
DEDICATION OF THE NEW TEMPLE OF THE LODGE OF HARMONY, No. 2180, E.C.
On Saturday 24 August 1968 there gathered one of the largest meetings of Masons at the Dedication of the
New Temple of the Lodge of Harmony, No. 2180, at Church Street, Otahuhu. About 400 Brethren attended
from as far south as Gisborne to as far north as Kaeo, and the Deputy District Grand Master, W. Bro. I. E.
Whale, in the absence through ill-health of the District Grand Master, R.W. Bro. C. L. Shroff, welcomed
R.W. Bro. G. L. G. Sharp, Provincial
Grand Master, South Auckland District, Grand Lodge of New Zealand; R.W. Bro. W. C. T. Brunton,
Provincial Grand Master for New Zealand, Grand Lodge of Ireland, and Bro. J. G. Erne Adams, R.W.,
District Grand Master, New Zealand North, Grand Lodge of Scotland.
The Deputy District Grand Master, W. Bro. I. E. Whale, was welcomed by the Master of the Lodge of
Harmony, W. Bro. S. D. McCallum, who was accompanied by about 50 Present and Past District Grand
Lodge Officers.
The ceremony of the Dedication of the new Temple was carried out by W. Bro. Whale assisted by W. Bro.
H. N. Spencer, P.G.D. (corn), W. Bro. W. Fortune, P.A.G.Reg. (wine) and W. Bro. R. A. R. Enting,
P.A.G.D.C. (oil). The sacred portion of the ceremony was performed by W. Bro. Rev. J. D. Taylor,
D.G.Chap., and the Scripture reading was given by W. Bro. M. A. Allen, P.D.G.D.C. W. Bro. V. Avery,
D.G.Treas., presided at the organ and enhanced the ceremonial.
The Lodge is to be congratulated on building such a commodious Lodge Room and Refectory, and the
wonderful work done by so many of the Brethren in finishing and furnishing the building is an example to
all.
The outstanding portion of the ceremony was the Oration delivered by W. Bro. A. W. Wood, A.D.G.D.C.,
who has played such a prominent part in the establishment of the new building, which was as follows:
Oration
In the 127th Psalm at the first verse it is written, "Except the Lord build the house they labour in vain that
build
We are met this evening to celebrate the completion of a new Lodge Room for the Lodge of Harmony, and it
is fitting on such an occasion that we should remember our distinguished predecessors who laid so well the
foundations on which the Lodge now rests.
The first recorded Masonic activity in Otahuhu was the consecration of the St. John's Lodge, No. 464, S.C.,
which took place in the Criterion Hotel on Tuesday 26 June 1866 at High Noon. Unfortunately, this Lodge
ceased labour in or about 1875, probably when the Imperial troops were withdrawn from Otahuhu. Its
provisional warrant or dispensation now hangs in our entrance foyer.
The first steps towards the formation of the Lodge of Harmony were taken at a meeting of Master Masons at
the home of Bro. Dr Leger Erson 19 September 1885. Further meetings of the steering committee were held
in the Criterion Hotel and the new Lodge was consecrated in the Public Hall by the Deputy District Grand
Master, W. Bro. William Lodder on Wednesday 26 May 1886 when Bro. Dr Leger Erson was installed in the
Chair in the presence of 23 Installed Masters. Immediately after the ceremony the Brethren, by dispensation,
paraded through the streets of Otahuhu in their regalia to bear Divine service in the Parish Church, for they
were aware that except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.
The preacher on that occasion was the Rev. E. H. Gulliver, Senior Warden of the Lodge, and a copy of his
address, of which, unfortunately, only the first page is visible, is framed and hangs in our Grand Lodge
Room with a copy of the consecration programme.
At that first meeting five men were proposed as candidates for initiation, and of those five, three were to
have a far reaching influence on the Lodge: John Wallace, Agricultural Implement Manufacturer; Alfred
Sturges, Draper; and Robert William Franklin, Solicitor.
The new Lodge was formed in difficult times, and money was short, but these were men of vision. At an
emergency meeting on 9 August 1886, the Master gave notice of intention to propose a resolution, "That it is
desirable to build a Hall in Otahuhu for the use of this Lodge". At an emergency meeting on 24 August an
offer was received from Bro. Secombe of a section. At a further emergency meeting on Monday 6 September
the Master's resolution was passed, and the site was discussed. Apparently Bro. Secombe's offer was not
acceptable for we hear no more of it. However, the Lodge appointed a committee consisting of the officers of
the Lodge and Bros. Wallace and Sturges with full power to act. They must have acted fast for at the regular
meeting on the following night Bro. Wallace reported to the Lodge an offer by Messrs Watson and Murray,
the joint proprietors of the land on which the Star Hotel studs, of a site "40-50 ft by 70 ft in Panmure Road"
(now Atkinson Avenue). Negotiations were put in hand and at the meeting on 4 January 1887 it was reported
that Watson and Murray had confirmed their offer (presumably of the actual 40 ft x 50 ft site in the Great
South Road), and in addition had donated £35 to the Building Fund and had offered that if the Brethren
raised £100 to £125 they would lend £150 to £200 on Building Society terms for five years. One hundred
pounds was a lot of money but it must have been found for at the meeting on 8 March it was reported that the
contract for the building had been let. In April (the election night) the Installation was postponed. In May it
was again postponed to 28 June to coincide with the opening of the new Lodge Rooms, and in fact both
events took place at the regular meeting on Tuesday 5 July 1887 the D.D.G.M. again officiated at both
ceremonies.
The Lodge Room was the supper room of the old building in the Great South Road, Otahuhu, which many of
you will remember. It remained in use until 1913, when it was enlarged and the second storey added. In that
form it remained except for minor alterations until its sale in 1963.
So much for the Lodge Room. What of the Lodge? To one who was born and bred in Otahuhu, reading the
old minutes of the Lodge is like reading the history of Otahuhu itself. Amongst the foundation members
were such men as the Rev. Canon F. Gould, the first Vicar of Otahuhu; Bro. Samuel Luke, of 464 S.C., the
third Chairman of the Highways Board (the first local authority in the area) and Chairman of the Auckland
Education Board. He was succeeded, as Chairman of the Highways Board by Bro. Captain John Gordon,
foundation member and foundation Treasurer of the St. John's Lodge, foundation member of the Lodge of
Harmony and another well known man in the community, who was also a member of the Provincial Council
and Chairman of the Auckland Hospital Board. The Brethren will know his house at the corner of Great
South Road and Princes Street, which has served as a Free Kindergarten and as a temporary home for the
Borough and the Police; and there was Bro. James Todd, who was still an active member of the Lodge at its
Jubilee in 1936.
Amongst the early initiates and joining members we have such men as John Wallace, who served the first
Highways Board and Bro. John Todd, who served as Chairman of the Board. He was succeeded by Bro. F.
C. Lippiatt, who also served on the Otahuhu Borough Council. Bro. R. B. Todd was the fourth Mayor of
Otahuhu.
Lastly I must mention Bro. Alfred Sturges. He was of considerable charm and personality, as you may see
for yourselves from the magnificent portrait of him that hangs in the entrance. Without his enthusiastic,
energetic, and I suspect considerable financial support the young Lodge must have followed its predecessor
into oblivion. But apart from his Masonic activities he was also an outstanding public figure. He served as a
member and thrice as Chairman of the Road Board. He was the first Mayor of the Borough of Otahuhu
which he was largely instrumental in forming. He gave us Sturges Park valued at the time of the gift at
£3,000, an enormous sum in those days. He was a keen sportsmen;
President and Patron of the Ro wing Club, and foundation member and first President of the Otahuhu
Bowling Club. He was a farmer and an orchardist.
These were men and Masons, who showed their Masonry in the quality of their lives.
And now Brethren, what of the future? We meet in a magnificent building, but "except the Lord build the
house they labour in vain that build it". If future generations leave this place with no more than a sense of
having spent a convivial evening in congenial company, then we have laboured in vain; we have spent our
strength for nought. For this is not Masonry and a man is not a Mason because his name appears on the
membership roll of a Lodge. A man is a Mason as he shows in his life the teachings of Masonry. It is all too
easy for us to sit in Lodge and hear the ritual with our ears but not our hearts. We have all heard the
injunction to consider that Book as the unerring standard of truth and justice and to regulate your actions by
the divine precepts it contains, yet I suspect that many of us made our closest acquaintance with its contents
when we placed our hand upon it in the three degrees. We have all heard and seen that striking lesson in
Charity in the North East corner. How many of us regard it is to be seen in the numbers in any Lodge who
contribute to our great Masonic charities.
It is the work of the stonemason, blow by blow, stroke by stroke, to form and shape the stone and render it fit
for its place in the intended structure. So it is the work of the Freemason to shape and mould his life by the
doctrines contained in that Holy Book and the teachings of Masonry, precept upon precept, line upon line,
here a little and there a little, so as to render himself fit for his place in the grand design of the Master
Architect. By so doing he may assist in the building of a spiritual mansion, not made with hands, which shall
endure when this building and all who built it shall have crumbled into dust.
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HAWKE'S BAY
THE VICTORIA LODGE, No. 21, NAPIER
DOUBLE PRESENTATION OF 50-YEAR JEWEL
At the September meeting before a large attendance of Brethren and visitors, the Victoria Lodge. No. 21,
honoured two more of its Brethren with the presentation of 50-year Service Jewels to W. Bros. W. H. B. Bull
and F. R. Lee.
W. Bro. Bull was initiated in the Victoria Lodge on 17 April 1918, but because of his appointment as
medical officer to various Government departments, was only infrequently able to attend his Mother Lodge,
but did affiliate with Herbert Teagle Lodge, No. 300, in Wellington, where he was a Charter member and
subsequently became Master in July 1932, and later elevated to Grand Steward in 1940.
W. Bro. Lee was initiated in the Victoria Lodge on 20 August 1918, and became Master in June 1924,
serving a second term in 1925.
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Banners of all kinds available from
Regalia House
These two Brethren join the other five illustrious Brethren who attend when they are able, and their presence
is an example to all. Special mention must be made of V.W. Bro. F. G. N. Jones, one of this elite group, who
attends every meeting of the lodge, including instruction and rehearsals. At a moment's notice he can deliver
any charge in the ritual with all the sincerity and dignity of his 85 years. He is truly a shining light, and his
typical remark—"you are doing all right"—has been of tremendous encouragement to many young and
nervous Masons.
The Prov. Grand Master, R.W. Bro. A. Dysart and a good representation of Grand Lodge Officers attended
with him to present the jewels on behalf of Grand Lodge.
As could be expected the refectory proceedings were the opportunity for the five 50-year holders present to
reminisce, and younger Brethren who travel to Lodge Waikaremoana from Napier in 11/2 hours with modern
comfort were amazed to learn that a trip in the 1920s aboard an open charabanc necessitated leaving at 1
p.m. with the hope of arriving back in time for a late start at work the next day.
All present at this meeting, and to the refectory proceedings afterwards, felt that it was an outstanding
occasion of great credit to the Master, W. Bro. Ivan Martin and to the Victoria Lodge, No. 21.—I.A.M.
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TARANAKI
UNIQUE OCCASION AT INSTALLATION
Greetings from Greek Freemasons from many parts of the world were received for the Installation of Bro.
Michael Yiannett as Master of the De Burgh Adams Lodge, No. 446, I.C., in New Plymouth on 20 July.
There was a unique occasion during the ceremony when Bro. Yiannett was presented to the Wor. Installing
Master by his father, Bro. J. Yiannett, and brother, Bro. C. J. Yiannett, who are also members of De Burgh
Adams Lodge.
The Installation attracted one of the biggest attendances in Taranaki in recent years, being in excess of 250.
Visitors were present from as far afield as Auckland, Thames and Wellington.
Amongst the distinguished visitors were Rt. W. Bro. W. C. T. Brunton, Prov. Grand Master, Irish
Constitution, and his Prov. Deputy Grand Master, Rt. W. Bro. L. S. Judd, and two Past Prov. Grand Masters,
N.Z.C., Rt. W. Bro. V. F. Howell and Rt. W. Bro. H. F. Wooffindin.
W. Bro. Yiannett, who is aged 28, has proved a most efficient and popular officer of De Burgh and is well
known in many other centres.
Among those sending greetings were: Rt. W. Bro. John Sampson, Grand Secretary, and the W. Master,
Officers, and Brethren of the Parthenon Lodge, No. 1101, New York, the first and oldest Greek lodge in
America; M.W. Bro. Tzazopoulos, Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Greece, Athens; Rt. W. Bro. G. C.
Grimaldi, Past Master, Parthenon Lodge, No. 112, and also the Rt. W. Master, Officers, and Brethren of the
Parthenon Lodge, No. 112, Athens.
Messages were also sent by a large number of Greek Brethren from all over New Zealand who were unable
to attend.
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RUAPEHU DISTRICT
RUAPEHU DISTRICT, LODGE MILSON, No. 432
"An Exemplification of the Second Degree"
Irish Constitution Working
Lodge Milson was privileged to provide a most successful evening for their regular meeting in August when
a select team of members of Lodge Rutland, No. 398, under the very able leadership of Worshipful Brother
M. McMeekin gave an excellent Exemplification of the Second Degree, Irish Constitution Working.
Considerable interest in the event was evident some time beforehand and this was fully confirmed on the
evening by a large and 'representative attendance from a goodly number of district Lodges.
Many of the Brethren had not previously witnessed an Irish Working and unanimously agreed after such a
fine rendering of the work that their effort to attend was well worth while.
Interest was not only confined to the Lodge Room, but carried over into the refectory where the pleasure of
the evening was further enhanced by the ready acquiescence of Worshipful Brother McMeekin to answer the
many and varied questions asked by the Brethren.
Worshipful Brother McMeekin and his team were appropriately honoured and thanked and a lovely meeting
came to an end.
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Tracing Boards available on order from
Regalia House
WELLINGTON
SHOULD AULD ACQUAINTANCE BE FORGOT,
AND NEVER BROUGHT TO MIND ?
No! seemed the emphatic answer of the Wellington District 1949 Masters' Association on the occation of
their Eighteenth Annual Re-union recently.
Of the 31 remaining Masters no fewer than 24 attended, involving travel from as far afield as Hastings. Of
the remainder, five in Auckland or further north sent apologies, as did the two others for health reasons.
Guest of honour was M.W. Bro. Cuthbert Taylor, P.G.M., at that time the Prov. G.M., again pleased to recall
the happy associations earlier established. President for the year was W. Bro. "Tom" White (Hinemoa, No.
122) who, during the proceedings, installed his successor W. Bro. "Bill" Eatweil, now of Palmerston North
(formerly Tawerao-Kapiti-, No. 253), a ceremony which followed a short cocktail session and appetising
dinner. As toastmaster W. Bro. George Thomas (Karori 247), served in a key role encouraging many
interesting reminiscences all thoroughly enjoyed. Included was a toast to the 1948 Masters' Association,
responded to by their President, W. Bro. J. O. Arkley (Russell, No. 254).
Speaker for the evening was R.W. Bro. Fred Northern (Research, No. 194), who briefly covered his world
trip which included the 250th Anniversary in London of the United Grand Lodge of England.
A full measure of credit for the happy atmosphere and the thoroughness of the organising was accorded
V.W. Bro. "Tom" Wallace, P.G.D.C. (Ulster, No. 62), whose reappointment as Secretary was greeted with
enthusiasm, in the anticipation that next year's function, the Twentieth Anniversary, would be as much
enjoyed.—A.T.H.
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NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH
"A ceremony which was possibly unique in New Zealand Masonry took place in the refectory following the
July meeting of Golden Bay Lodge, No. 2194, E.C.
"This was by way of a toast in recognition of the birth of his first child to the W.M. Bro. B. J. Cashman.
"It took the form of a toast which coupled the name of the baby daughter, the father, our W.M., Bro. B. J.
Cashman. The father of the W.M., Bro. J. M. Cashman, P.A.G.D.C., who has been Secretary of Golden Bay
Lodge since 1937 and who initiated his son as a Lewis and is now acting as his son's Secretary. Together
with the father of the W.M.'s wife, W. Bro. K. C. Frater, who is acting as his son-in-law's Director of
Ceremonies.
"Thus the toast was to the child, the father as W.M., and both grandfathers who act as Secretary and D.C."
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Rose Croix Eagles and Stars in stock at
Regalia House
EXEMPLIFICATION OF THE FIRST DEGREE
Saturday 24 August will long be remembered by those Brethren who were fortunate enough to be able to
attend the above ceremony.
The meeting was held in the Waimea College Hall, Richmond, Nelson, under the Charter of the Marlborough
Lodge of Unanimity, No. 106, being the oldest Lodge in the district, and its officers occupied the various
offices for the opening and closing.
The ceremony as worked approximately 200 years ago was staged by the Worshipful Master, Officers and
Brethren of the United Masters' Lodge, No. 167, Auckland, before an attendance of over 450 Brethren from
Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast Districts. The Brethren were most interested in the costumes and
regalia worn by those participating, which, with the equipment used, was exactly similar to that which was
used by early Brethren.
Prior to the actual working, V.W. Bro. J. P. Glennie, Asst. Prov. Grand Master, Auckland, gave an
enlightening and comprehensive review of various aspects of the ceremony as it would be revealed during
the evening.
The result was a most interesting and unusual Masonic treat and those attending thoroughly enjoyed its
presentation.
Thanks and congratulations are expressed to the organising committee for arranging and successfully
completing all details in connection with the visit, thus enabling so many Brethren to witness this unique
ceremony.
THE MARLBOROUGH LODGE OF UNANIMITY, No. 106
There was a good attendance at the Installation Meeting held on Tuesday 13 August when Bro. Bruce R.
Pickering was Installed as Worshipful Master by R.W. Bro. J. D. Baird, Prov. G.M., Nelson-Marlborough
District. A particular friendly and relaxed atmosphere prevailed amongst the Brethren and so contributed to
the enjoyment of the evening.
R.W. Bro. Baird, as usual, was in the best of form in carrying out the Installation work in which he was
assisted by Grand Lodge Officers of whom 27 accompanied him. In briefly outlining the work of the Board
of Benevolence and of the assistance it was giving to necessity cases, the Prov. Grand Master called on
Brethren to give as generously as possible to which the Brethren responded in a liberal manner with a
collection of $85.10, for which R. W. Baird expressed his grateful thanks.
An interesting feature of the meeting was the attendance of five holders of the Fifty Years' Service Badge.
M.W. Bro. W. J. Girling, P.G.M. (1907), W. Bro. C. L. Tunnicliffe (1907), formerly of Blenheim, who had
come from Wellington specially for the meeting, R.W. Bro. F. C. A'Court, P.G.W. (1917), Bro. G. M.
Spence (1916), R.W. Bro. Geo. Mitchell (1918).
The toast to the Prov. G. Master was in the hands of M.W. Bro. Girling, P.G.M., who with a wealth and
knowledge of experience behind him was able to speak interestingly of Grand Lodge matters and of the
duties entailed on a Prov. G.M.
W. Bro. T. Glover and Bro. T. Hurcombe, both in good voice, assisted in the refectory with much
appreciated solo items.
CANTERBURY
VISIT OF GRAND MASTER TO THE
CHRISTCHURCH LODGE
The Masonic Hall, Gloucester Street, was the scene of the largest Masonic meeting in Christchurch for many
years when M.W. Bro. J. A. Redwood, Grand Master, paid an official visit to the District. He attended the
Christchurch Lodge, No. 91, when the ceremony was to pass Bro. Arthur William Stubberfield to the Second
Degree.
There was a large attendance of Grand Lodge Officers and Provincial Grand Lodge Officers; and there were
also 35 sitting Masters present. District Grand Lodge, E.C., was represented by Rt. W. Bro. D. A. Munro,
Dist. G.M. and his officers.
The Grand Master was welcomed by Rt. W. Bro. J. W. Vivian, Prov. G.M., who expressed the pleasure of
the Brethren of Canterbury that M.W. Bro. Redwood had been able to pay this further visit to the province.
The Master, W. Bro. F. W. Overend and his officers then conducted the ceremony.
Tribute by M.W. Bro. J. S. Hawker, P.G.M.
In the refectory the toast of the Grand Master was proposed by M.W. Bro. J. S. Hawker, P.G.M., who said
that he had been closely associated with M.W. Bro. Redwood for 20 years and fully appreciated his sterling
qualities.
M.W. Bro. Hawker said that the Grand Master has dynamic energy, and does not fail to use his energy for
mankind in general. He said that as President of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce, M.W. Bro. Redwood
showed himself to be a fine leader on all occasions, and to be blessed with understanding and a very friendly
manner. Freemasonry has been fortunate that M.W. Bro. Redwood made himself available for the position of
Grand Master. He has carried out his duties to the entire satisfaction of all concerned; and Freemasonry has
been enhanced by the work he has performed. M.W. Bro. Hawker also stated that the Craft owes a great debt
of gratitude to Mrs Redwood for the wonderful support she has given to her husband at all times.
Reply by Grand Master
The Grand Master congratulated the Christchurch Lodge on its Seventy-fifth Anniversary, and thanked the
Brethren for their warm welcome. He said that the success of the Canterbury District has been brought about
by fine leadership by a considerable number of eminent leaders.
M.W. Bro. Redwood told the Brethren that in spite of pessimism, the Craft in his opinion has never been
stronger. We more than justify our existence; and it is noticeable that we find Freemasons in many of the
important positions in New Zealand.
The Grand Master said that he is pleased that care is being taken over the maintenance of buildings of
lodges. He paid a particular tribute to the beauty of the principal Lodge Room at the Masonic Hall in
Gloucester Street, Christchurch, where the ceremony had been conducted that evening.
M.W. Bro. Redwood informed the Brethren that the next Grand Master will be the Governor-General, Sir
Arthur Porritt; and mentioned that the Governor-General is deeply interested in the Charities.
M.W. Bro. Redwood concluded by alluding to the establishing of flats, homes and chapels and hospitals. At
the same time he considers the Grand Lodge Benevolent Fund to be the most important Masonic Charity.
CANTERBURY MASONIC CHARITABLE TRUST
The annual meeting of the Trust was held in Christchurch recently when V.W. Bro. T. Mackenzie presided
over a full attendance. The statement of accounts showed that the sum of $4,134 had been donated to various
organisations, the principal ones being Hohepa Home for intellectually handicapped children $1,000, Fairlie
pensioner flats to provide carpeting $1,044, Timaru Hospital Chapel for furnishings and communal table and
lectern $1,000, and Project Concern, the amount of the G. O. Templeton Fund, $800.
W. Bro. A. L. Large retired from office as a Trustee, and was thanked by the Chairman for his long and
valued services. W. Bro. Ferguson was elected to fill the vacancy. Thanks were also expressed to the
Secretary-Treasurer, W. Bro. A. C. Winter, and mention was made of the fact that practically no expense was
incurred in administering the trust.
A report was given to the meeting on Project Concern and the proposed erection of flats for housing aged
persons. The right to purchase two sections in Farrington Avenue, Bishopdale, Papanui, has been obtained
from the Department of Lands and Survey. The sum of $10,700 has so far been donated by the Brethren of
Canterbury and it is hoped that the construction of the first flats can be commenced reasonably soon. The
Chairman of the Flats Committee is W. Bro. V. B. McKeague.—A.C.F.
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CHRISTCHURCH
The Masters' and Past Masters' Lodge, No. 130, held its bi-monthly meeting on 17 July when a lecture was
given by V.W. Bro. L. D. J. Smith, Grand Lecturer and a Past Master of the Lodge, entitled "Looking at
Ourselves". There was a good discussion and the Brethren present considered that they had a profitable
evening.
———
The Royal Canterbury Preceptory, No. 246, of Knights Templar, held its Installation meeting on 31 July
when Bro. Knight B. H. Tibbs was installed as Eminent Preceptor by Very Eminent Knight E. J. Woolf,
Provincial Prior, and as Prior of Malta by Emt. Kt. W. L. Cannington, Provincial Vice-Chancellor. The toast
of the V.E. Provincial Prior was proposed by Emt. Kt. G. W. Soal and that of the Eminent Preceptor by Emt.
Kt. Ross Hepburn, P.G.M.B.B.
———
Excelsior Chapter, No. 78 (Rose Croix), held its Installation meeting on 13 August when Ex. and Per. Bro.
James McMillan was installed as Most Wise Sovereign by Very Illustrious Brother G. K. Neill, 33°,
Inspector-General for the Southern District of New Zealand, assisted by Illustrious Brethren. The toast of the
Inspector-General w as proposed by V. Ill. Bro. A. H. C. Cavell, 33°, and that of the M.W.S. by Ill. Bro.
Ross Hepburn, 31°.
———
At the regular meeting of Lodge Riccarton, No. 276, held on 20 August, the Brethren were favoured with a
lecture by V.W. Bro. L. D. J. Smith, Grand Lecturer on the subject of proposing candidates. This was
followed by a general discussion and a number of questions.
———
The Installation meeting of Prince of Wales, Royal Arch Chapter, was held on 21 August when Ex. Comp.
V. A. G. Aldridge was installed as First Principal, Ex Comp. J. R. Forster as Second Principal and Ex. Comp.
A. M. Evans as Third Principal. The ceremony was conducted by R.E. Comp. L. D. J. Smith, Grand
Superintendent of Canterbury, assisted by Grand Chapter Officers. On this occasion the Chapter was
honoured by an official visit by Most Excellent Companion A. J. Hendry, First Grand Principal, who paid a
visit to his own mother Chapter. The toast of the First Grand Principal was proposed by M.E. Comp Ross
Hepburn, P.G.Z., and that of the First Principal by V.E. Comp. J. Rayner.
———
At Lodge Takahe, No. 397, a very informative
address was given to Brethren by W. Bro. L. J.
Grimwood on the Board of Benevolence. He
described the origin, growth and purposes of the
funds of the Board, and spoke of the grants made
to widows and aged Brethren.